Abstract
Abstract Laryngeal emphysema, or air surrounding the larynx, is a rare complication in the absence of traumatic upper aerodigestive tract injury. We report a case of a lifethreatening upper airway obstruction from laryngeal emphysema following videoassisted thoracoscopic surgery for lung cancer. Air leaking from a segment of lung resulted in the accumulation of air within the visceral compartment of the neck, with the subsequent pressurized compression of contained structures, such as the oesophagus and larynx. This posed an imminent risk of airway compromize, necessitating immediate medical management. Securing upper airway patency is the primary goal to prevent respiratory failure, followed by treatment of the accumulated air in the subcutaneous space. We provide a detailed overview of the mechanistic processes involved in the development of laryngeal emphysema. This case also illustrates the general and emergency airway management strategies in a patient with life-threatening laryngeal emphysema.
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